There is a significant difference in conditioning and game speed between players competing in the Skipper Cup and those in the Super Rugby Pacific competition. This observation was made by Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne during a recent interview with SUNsports, where he addressed the selection of Naitasiri hooker Kavaia Tagivetaua as the only locally-based player included in the Flying Fijians squad for the Pacific Nations Cup.
Byrne expressed the importance of a professional rugby setup, highlighting the need for players to engage in full-time training and preparation. He identified the challenge of aligning the fitness levels of Skipper Cup teams with those required for higher levels of rugby.
Looking ahead, Byrne expressed eagerness to collaborate with Skipper Cup coaches to reduce the existing gap between the two competitions. He noted positive feedback regarding player performance and fitness levels from those in the Skipper Cup, which could lead to talented individuals being integrated into the Fijians Warriors program.
Byrne also shared hopes that skilled players from the Skipper Cup could be recruited for the Drua franchise. He mentioned that these players might advance into the national team through their performances with the Warriors.
In other updates, the inclusion of France-based Adrea Cocagi in the Flying Fijians squad aims to strengthen the depth of the second-five eighth position. Cocagi has been an impactful player for Castres in the Top 14 competition this season. Byrne praised Cocagi’s abilities as a strong runner in the midfield and expressed anticipation for his contributions in the upcoming campaign. Having previously played two Test matches under head coach Vern Cotter, Cocagi brings valuable experience and comes from Nuku Village in Serua, having played for Lomary Secondary School before joining the Newcastle Knights in the NRL.
Byrne also mentioned that hooker Zuriel Togiatama is absent from the squad due to family commitments in Auckland. He stated that Simione Kuruvoli has been performing consistently since the World Cup and deserves time off to be with his family.
The 30-member Flying Fijians squad is set to report to camp tomorrow.